ISLAMABAD: The Federal Bureau of Revenue (FBR) has dispelled rumours regarding the taxation of prize money awarded to Arshad Nadeem, Pakistan’s Olympic gold medallist in javelin throw at Paris Olympics 2024. The clarification comes amid widespread speculation on social media claiming that Nadeem’s prize money would be subject to tax.
In a statement, FBR spokesperson Bakhtiar Muhammad refuted these claims. “Rumours of taxing national hero Arshad Nadeem’s prize money are baseless. No tax will be charged on the prize money received by him,” Muhammad said. He emphasized that neither withholding tax nor income tax applies to the prize money Nadeem received.
The statement follows concerns raised by various social media users, who questioned whether Nadeem’s significant earnings from his Olympic success would be taxed.
Nadeem, who won the gold medal in javelin throw at the Paris Olympics 2024 with a record-breaking throw of 92.97 meters, was showered with rewards from prominent figures upon his return. Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz announced a prize of Rs100 million, Karachi Mayor Barrister Murtaza Wahab pledged Rs50 million, and Sindh Governor Kamran Tessori promised Rs2 million.
The FBR clarified that under current income tax regulations, prize money from the Olympic Games is not subject to tax. The bureau assured that it is committed to exempting Nadeem’s prize money from taxes.
“Income tax rules do not mention tax on prize money received from Olympic games,” the FBR statement explained. “Nadeem is a national hero, and all possible cooperation will be extended to him. These baseless rumours should be put to rest.”
Nadeem’s triumphant return to Pakistan was met with enthusiastic celebrations. The javelin star arrived late Saturday night at Lahore’s Allama Iqbal International Airport to a hero’s welcome. He was greeted by a large crowd, including top officials, provincial and federal ministers, his family, and numerous fans.
In his first remarks after arriving, Nadeem expressed his gratitude for the honour and recognition. “I am grateful to Allah Almighty for this achievement at the Paris Olympics 2024. I also thank the nation for the respect and honour it has bestowed upon me,” Nadeem said.
He reflected on the hard work and dedication required to secure the medal, noting, “There is a long journey behind this success. I worked hard day and night to achieve this.”
The government has also announced further honours for Nadeem. President Asif Ali Zardari has directed that Nadeem be awarded the Hilal-e-Imtiaz, Pakistan’s second-highest civilian award. Additionally, Minister for Information Attaullah Tarar said that a special postage stamp would be issued to celebrate Nadeem’s Olympic victory.
